Automotive Bailout Finalized, Say Democratic Negotiators
Congressional Democratic negotiators and the Bush White House have finalized a deal that would approve a $15 billion bailout plan for the troubled automotive industry, the congressional officials said Wednesday.
WASHINGTON — Congressional Democratic negotiators and the Bush White House have finalized a deal that would approve a $15 billion bailout plan for the troubled automotive industry, the congressional officials said Wednesday.
The White House did not officially say the deal was final, but did report “very good progress.”
The legislation could be voted on by the House of Representatives later Wednesday and enacted by the week’s end. Some opposition still remains among Republican lawmakers and they may try to block the measure from passing.
The measure would allow Chrysler, Ford Motor Co., and General Motors Corp. to receive loans by Dec. 15.
Under the plan, the three automakers would have to show by March 31 that they have a viable, long-term plan before receiving any further money from Congress. The legislation would also establish an adviser to oversee the use of the government money and to verify that the three automakers are working toward long-term stability and viability.
The adviser would also coordinate a long-term plan with Detroit after the Big 3 have received assistance. If the adviser finds the companies are living up to their obligations, the three domestic car companies could receive further financial help.
More F&I

Integrating Nontraditional F&I Products
The niche presents a strategic advantage for auto dealerships as they move to adapt to fast-changing consumer expectations in today’s market.
Read More →
Trust Is Personal
Technology, no matter how efficient, can’t replace what the human F&I manager can do, which is to bridge the divide between cyberspace and the in-store experience.
Read More →
Amplify 2026 Billed as Turning Innovation Into Results
Reynolds and Reynolds says its annual retail summit will connect dealers with practical strategies, peer insight, and technology-driven ideas.
Read More →
Own Your Outcome: F&I in the Digital Customer Journey
Finance has historically been the last step in the car-buying process, but it doesn’t have to be. The customer’s journey starts long before they arrive at the dealership, and so should F&I’s involvement.
Read More →
Tariffs Could Raise Insurance Premiums
As U.S. import tariffs affect repair costs, consumers might find it more affordable to replace a damaged vehicle, according to recent Insurify tariff analysis.
Read More →
Smaller Loans, Longer Terms
The youngest generation of car buyers is more likely to finance less expensive vehicles, more than half of generation Z consumers borrowing less than $25,000.
Read More →
New Lifetime Battery F&I Product Meant to Drive Dealer Traffic
EFG Cos. offering is intended to create lifetime auto dealer engagement with customers.
Read More →
The Psychology Behind Menus That Increase Add-On Sales
There is a science to crafting a menu that gives customers confidence in the choices presented, and moving the process outside the F&I office can further boost results.
Read More →
Why Your F&I PVR Is Misleading You
Here’s a handy checklist of the numbers to track in 2026 instead.
Read More →
Auto Consumer Anxiety Presents Opportunity
A survey of U.S. drivers found the majority are concerned about finances and the economy, but those fears make many ready to buy vehicle-protection products.
Read More →